Phil Goff

Phil Bruce Goff (22 June 1953) is the leader of the leftist New Zealand Labour Party, the seond main party of New Zealand behind the New Zealand National Party. Goff took leadership of the party after Helen Clark lost the election to John Key in 1998. Since Goff has been leader the party has wallowed in the polls and are facing their biggest loss in 20 years in the 2011 election.

Political positions

Goff favours an extension of the government, tax and spend policies and has floated a lifting of the top tax rate and implemntation of a capital gains tax. Neither policy has earned Labour any traction in the polls despite being supported leading many to believe that it is Goff himself bringing the vote down. Goff is known for making public gaffs and lacking charisma.